Lisfranc Injuries

What is the Lisfranc?

Lisfranc Injuries

Symptoms:

Swelling and/or widening of the foot

Bruising and blistering on the arch or top of the foot

Pain in the mid foot while walking and standing

The Lisfranc is the ligament that connects the bones of the mid-foot. It is a tough band of tissue between the tarsal bones of the foot’s arch and the bones that form the length of the foot, known as the metatarsal bones. A Lisfranc injury often resembles a sprained ankle, but is characterized by pain and irritation in the mid-foot.

Expert Treatment at Renova

Our doctors provide thorough diagnoses and expert treatment to patients with Lisfranc injuries and other injuries to the foot. If you are suffering from a foot injury, call Renova Foot and Ankle for the best sports medicine and foot treatment available.

FAQ: Lisfranc Injuries

What causes a lisfranc injury?

Though Lisfranc Injuries are not common, they can occur in a variety of ways. Both direct and indirect forces can cause an injury. For example, dropping a heavy object on the foot, twisting the foot, or stepping on an uneven surface are all potential causes of a Lisfranc sprain, fracture, or dislocation.

How are lisfranc injuries diagnosed?

Because a Lisfranc injury so closely resembles a sprained ankle, diagnosis of a Lisfranc injury must be thorough. Your foot specialist will examine your foot and talk to you about the cause of injury. He may then order and X-ray or CT scan to examine the injury. An X-ray can show misalignment of bones near the Lisfranc and will often reveal a gap between the first and third toes.

What should I do if I think I may have injured my Lisfranc?

If you believe you may have injured your Lisfranc, it is important to seek treatment immediately. Early diagnosis will keep symptoms from worsening and can lead to a quicker and more effective healing period. Until you receive treatment, make sure to stay off of your injured foot. Keep the foot iced and elevated to reduce pain and swelling.

How are Lisfranc injuries treated?

Non-surgical treatments for a Lisfranc sprain, fracture, or dislocation may include continued ice and elevation, the use of a cast and crutches to immobilize the foot and reduce weight-bearing, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines, and physical therapy.
More severe Lisfranc injuries can be treated with surgery. A foot surgeon may secure fractured bones internally or externally. The surgeon may also realign dislocated bones in the Lisfranc and fit the patient with a walking boot to wear during recovery.